The service experiences of people with presenile dementia: A study of carers in one London Borough

Fifteen carers of people with presenile dementia in the London Borough of Sutton were interviewed about their experiences of the services that had been provided to them. The carers were generally satisfied once they had been referred for specialist help and they would have liked more support and information around the time of diagnosis. When asked about what additional services were required, carers were particularly concerned about the lack of appropriate day care for their relative. Carers whose relative had been admitted to long‐term care reported finding the process of admission distressing. High levels of stress were found among all the carers. The importance of providing emotional support to this group of carers is emphasized.